Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever originated in Scotland. Lord Tweedmouth bred several dogs together over many years in an attempt to create what was finally called the Golden Retriever. The dog had an excellent nose, and was used mainly as a hunting companion. The earliest yellow dog in the line was called Nous. Nous was bred to a Tweed water spaniel named Belle. Their descendants were bred with both flat- and wavy-coated retrievers. Lord Tweedmouth continued his breeding program with yellow-coated dogs in these litters. The first golden retriever was recognized in 1911 by The Kennel Club in England. It wasn't until 1920 that the breed was officially named the Golden Retriever. Today, the breed ranks second in popularity in the United States. <h2>Golden Retriever Names</h2> <p>Looking for cute puppy names for your Golden Retriever? We have made a listing for you with the cutest and most popular <strong>Golden Retriever names</strong>! These dog names are chosen by our fans for every type of retriever, male or female! Check out our top 10 best Golden retriever names here: <i>Teddy, Thor, Tarzan, Oscar, Odele, Natasha, Misty, Lucy, Lola, and Baxter</i>! </p>

The Golden Retriever is a muscular and athletic dog breed that is able to retrieve prey on land or water. Its trademark is its wavy or straight "golden locks". Coats are medium or long in length and need the occasional clipping and frequent brushing.

Personality

The Golden Retriever is among the most popular dog breeds. Its friendliness and obedience make it a perfect family companion. These are active, intelligent dogs that need daily physical and mental exercise in the form of long walks or fun games. They also love to swim and carry things in their mouths. If it is not given sufficient exercise, it may develop behavioral problems. It loves to learn and is friendly towards children, dogs and strangers.

Breed Characteristics

Golden Retriever Build Information

The Golden Retriever is a muscular and athletic dog breed that is able to retrieve prey on land or water. His trademark is his wavy or straight "golden locks". Coats are medium or long in length and need the occasional clipping and frequent brushing.

Behaviour and Personality

The Golden Retriever is among the most popular dog breeds. His friendliness and obedience make him a perfect family companion. These are active, intelligent dogs that need daily physical and mental exercise in the form of long walks or fun games. They also love to swim and carry things in their mouths. If it is not given sufficient exercise, he may develop behavioral problems. He loves to learn and is friendly towards children, dogs and strangers.

Appearance

The Golden Retriever does not require the skills of a professional groomer, but some owners do elect to have their dog's coats clipped when shedding season arrives. The Golden Retriever is a heavy shedder year round, but especially during shedding season. Whether you elect to have your dog professionally groomed, you should brush his luxurious coat daily to prevent matting and to remove debris. A fine-tooth comb will keep your dog's feathers looking lovely. If your dog does not wear his nails down through exercise, trim them monthly. Pay close attention to your golden retriever's ears; they are prone to infections.

Golden Retriever Common Health Conditions

Due, in part, to over breeding, golden retrievers are prone to several health issues. These include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, subvalvular aortic stenosis, osteochondrosis dissecans, allergies, Von Willebrand's Disease, gastric dilation-volvulus, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, hemangiosaroma, and osteosarcoma. It is strongly advised to not purchase a golden retriever form a pet store. Instead, find a responsible breeder who conducts health testing on the dam and sire. This will lessen your dog's chances of developing these health issues.

Golden Retriever Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

Golden Retrievers shed regularly. If you aren't happy with dog hair floating around your home, this breed isn't for you. These dogs are incredibly bonded to their humans. Plan on exercising your Golden Retriever for at least 45 minutes each day. This breed is one of the best for families. The popularity of the breed has led to less-than-healthy dogs due to over breeding. Golden retrievers have a tendency to overeat. Be sure to measure your dog's food and keep table scraps to a minimum. Golden Retrievers are often called “Goldens”.